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DESCRIPTION

Since 2012, it has been possible to (re)discover internationally important pieces from the Middelheim collection in the Braempaviljoen (Braem Pavilion). In 2013 the Middelheim Museum presents The Chess Set (1966-67) by Vic Gentils (1919-1997, Belgium). This monumental installation with thirty-two exceptional pieces represents a turning point in Gentils’ oeuvre.

Since 2012, it has been possible to (re)discover internationally important pieces from the Middelheim collection in the Braempaviljoen (Braem Pavilion). A collection is presented twice a year; sometimes this is done in association with a guest curator who makes his or her own quirky selection and sometimes the museum itself selects exceptional pieces to place in the spotlight. These are works that have been acquired specially for the Braem Pavilion or which are too fragile to be displayed outdoors. The Middelheim Museum storage, designed by Stéphane Beel, houses many gems of modern and contemporary sculpture.

In 2013 the Middelheim Museum presents The Chess Set (1966-67) by Vic Gentils (1919-1997, Belgium). This monumental installation with thirty-two exceptional pieces represents a turning point in Gentils’ oeuvre. With this piece, he verges extremely closely on the boundary between the non-figurative and the figurative, a boundary that he transcended shortly thereafter. The scenography will reinforce the concept of a battle or game of chess, but will also offer the physical possibility of viewing the installation from different perspectives, for a longer period and in total comfort.

Along with this piece, Pierced by Rezsö Berczeller (1912-1992, Hungary) will also be on display. This artist, who is not as familiar to us, worked on the other side of Europe at the same time as Gentils, on a piece that at first glance appears to have a strong connection to that of the Belgian artist. The Hungarian’s oeuvre is actually influenced by the Second World War and the Hungarian Revolution of 1956, and is almost entirely devoted to the downfall of man.